ecobin wrote:
Digital zoom is similar to cropping the image whereas optical uses the camera's optics or zoom lens. As an example, on a DSLR, optical zooming can be achieved with a zoom lens but not with a prime lens. Digital zoom can be achieved on a DSLR only after the photo is taken - then can use the zoom button in back or the menu to alter the picture, or cropping on the computer.
I should read through them all before answering....